‘Tis the season to lace up for your next trail run! Trail running can be extremely physically demanding so it’s important to make sure you’re properly prepared for the elements and hurdles that the trail may throw your way. Here are MPGear’s Top 10 recommendations for optimal performance and comfort on your next trail run:

Vasque Mindbender Trail Running Shoe (Men’s and Women’s):
Designed for the long distance and ultra runners, this shoe is lightweight and ready to handle the miles of unpredictable trail ahead of you. If features the straighter Perpetuum Last fit that is great for runners with flatter foot arches and a wider toe box that supports foot expansion that occurs on long distance runs.More Info>

Vasque Velocity 2.0 Trail Running Shoe (Men’s and Women’s):Made with the tough construction of a hiking shoe, it also offers the comfort and breathability of a great trail running shoe. Equipped with the Arc Tempo Last, this shoe is ideal for runners with a higher foot arch and who are running on a short distance technical trail.More Info>

Vasque Men’s Velocity 2.0 GTX Trail Running Shoe:
This shoe has all the great features of the Velocity 2.0 plus the Gore-Tex Extended Comfort Technology, which makes it possible for the Velocity 2.0 to shed all moisture while retaining breathability.More Info>

Inov-8 X-Talon 190:
The lightest of MPGear’s Trail & Off-Trail Running shoes at just 6.7oz., this shoe is designed with minimal cushioning for optimal speed and with the minimalist feel and style.More Info>

Inov-8 X-Talon 212:
Weighing in just slightly heavier than the X-Talon 190’s at 7.5oz., the X-Talon 212’s are designed with a sticky compound for optimal stability and traction. It also offers a durable and protective upper to take on the elements if you decide to venture off the trail.More Info>

Inov-8 Women’s Roclite 268:
Designed with a female specific fit, this shoe is the perfect transition to the minimalist style. It’s lightweight at 9.5oz, and also has ample underfoot protection for a strong grip on the trails.More Info>

Inov-8 Roclite 285:A great lightweight shoe that offers protection with it’s reinforced toe box and supportive upper material, this shoe is durable enough to support you during the race or while you’re training.More Info>

Inov-8 Roclite 295:With slightly more weight than the 285’s, this shoe is great for the beginner minimalist trail runners, and is also designed for trail runners who are training or taking on a long distance trail run.More Info>

Inov-8 Flyroc 310:
Designed with Inov-8’s Flyroc sole, this shoe is lightweight and durable. The Flyroc 310 offers a reliable gripping sole that can be depended upon for the wet and uneven mountainous terrain on your next long distance trail run or hike.More Info>

Hoka Mafate 2 (Men’s and Women’s):
The Hoka Mafate 2’s are a one of a kind trail running shoe. They are designed with a 50% forward rocking profile that allows for an energy efficient stride transition for a unique running experience. They are also designed with 2.5x the EVA volume of any other running shoe which makes the impact of running much less stressful on the body.More Info>